Formation of a barrier-free environment in territorial communities

Анотація

Introduction. In the context of contemporary socio-economic transformations, European integration processes, and reforms of the local self-government system, the issue of forming a barrier-free environment has become particularly relevant. Barrier-free accessibility is viewed as a complex intersectoral category that integrates social, economic, infrastructural, and digital dimensions to ensure equal access of the population to public goods and services. Territorial communities play a key role in its implementation, as they represent the basic level for introducing inclusive policies. This article examines the evolution of the barrier-free concept, its structural components, and the specifics of practical implementation at the local level, as well as analyzes the level of barrier-free accessibility in territorial communities. Purpose. The purpose of the article is to analyze the theoretical foundations, assess the current state, and develop practical directions for improving the formation of a barrier-free environment in the territorial communities of Ukraine. Methodology. The research employs a set of general scientific methods. Analysis and synthesis are used to generalize theoretical approaches to the essence and types of barrier-free accessibility; the historical-logical method is applied to study the evolution of the concept; the systemic approach is used to consider barrier-free policy as an integrated multilevel system. Comparative and statistical analysis are applied to assess the barrier-free index and identify interregional disparities; the method of generalization is used to formulate conclusions; the structural-functional method determines the role of territorial communities; and the graphical method is used to visualize research results. Results. The study systematizes the theoretical foundations of barrier-free policy formation and confirms its multidimensional nature, encompassing physical, informational, digital, social, educational, economic, and environmental components. The evolution of the concept from a medical model to a modern inclusive approach based on human rights principles, universal design, and sustainable development is substantiated. It is demonstrated that territorial communities play a central role in implementing barrier-free policy, while its institutional framework is based on a combination of international and national regulatory instruments. The analysis of the barrier-free index reveals an average level of 75% and significant interregional disparities, indicating uneven development of inclusive environments. A lack of a systematic approach in most communities is identified, resulting in fragmented managerial decisions. It is substantiated that improving the effectiveness of barrier-free policy requires its integration into strategic development documents, adequate financial and institutional support, as well as the implementation of effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.

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